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Collaborative
research has a number of benefits but requires clear delineation of the
roles of the respective participants. Since such collaborations often occur
among individuals at different institutions, it is especially important
that each member have a clear understanding of the guidelines by which the
collaboration operates. Participants in collaborative studies should consider
creating a written statement that documents their respective roles in this
arrangement. This is particularly important as the membership in the collaborative
study or the role of the participants changes over time.
Before joining a collaborative effort, researchers
should consider seeking the advice and counsel of a mentor, grant/contract
officer, colleague who has been in such an arrangement or other resource.
This may help to determine if such an arrangement is appropriate and,
if so, the preferred way to enter into the collaboration. Open, candid,
ongoing communication is vital to the success of collaborative research.
This includes discussions that involve establishment of a formal collaboration
and ongoing activities of the participating parties.
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